exploration

noun

ex·​plo·​ra·​tion ˌek-splə-ˈrā-shən 

-ˌsplȯ-

: the act or an instance of exploring

explorational

ˌek-splə-ˈrā-sh(ə-)nəl 

-ˌsplȯ-

adjective

Synonyms of exploration

• investigation
• inquiry
• examination
• study
• probing
• research
• probe

Examples of exploration in a Sentence

a topic for scholarly exploration

the early exploration of the West

early explorations of the West

Recent Examples on the Web

From a chemist’s first search to the perfumer’s modification exploration, there are years and millions of dollars of research before the customer gets wind of anything happening. — Arabelle Sicardi, CNN Money, 27 Oct. 2026

The program will also test an existing 550-kilogram (about 1,213 pounds) sample collected during earlier exploration. — Kaif Shaikh, Interesting Engineering, 27 Oct. 2026

So there is indeed that distinction, meaning there can be a formal exploration, which is the case for Louis and myself. — Jasmine Vojdani, Vulture, 27 Oct. 2026

Crescent Energy Moving to Crescent Energy (CRGY), an exploration and production company with activities focused in the Eagle Ford, Permian, and Uinta Basins. — Tipranks.com Staff, CNBC, 26 Oct. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1537, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing exploration

• re-exploration
• self-exploration

Rhymes for exploration

• abdication
• aberration
• abjuration
• abnegation
• abrogation
• acceptation
• acclamation
• acclimation
• accusation
• activation
• actuation
• acylation

Kids Definition

exploration

noun

ex·​plo·​ra·​tion ˌek-splə-ˈrā-shən 

: the act or an instance of exploring